What Herbs Help With Weight Loss?

When you are on a path to weight loss, it can be as difficult to lose those last few pounds as it is to get started losing weight. Herbal supplementation can aid in your battle to lose weight. Whether you need a gentle weight-loss supplement or a powerful herb to peel off the pounds, herbal supplementation can help you on your path to a healthier body.

How to Use Herbs

Herbs that assist in weight loss are available raw, dried loose, in pill form and countless other preparations. For best absorption, "The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook"--by Tillotson et al-- recommends that most weight-loss herbs be taken as a tincture. A tincture is a liquid medicine solution (usually prepared by an herbalist) that is made of high-proof drinking alcohol, such as vodka.

Weight-loss herbal remedies should be bought as a prepared supplement or prepared by an herbalist unless the herb is a common food or known safe herb. Certain herbs are not safe for consumption until they are properly prepared. Some weight-loss herbs, such as ephedra, have received media attention for causing damage to the body. If you don't recognize a weight-loss herb, research it to find out whether it is safe for you to take, how much to take and how it is safest to take.

Kelp

Kelp is a common herb used to stimulate weight loss and increase the amount of fat burned by the body. Kelp contains vitamins and minerals that supplement your body's ability to use the energy stored in fat. According to "One Earth," Kelp also contains iodine and potassium, components known to stimulate the thyroid and increase metabolism. Foods with iodine should be regulated because an overdose of iodine, especially a long-term overdose, can cause more thyroid problems.

Ephedra

Ephedra is a common weight-loss herb that serves as a powerful component in many herbal weight-loss formulas sold over the counter. Ephedra is also known as ma huang. Since the 1990s, ephedra has received media attention due to its tendency to increase the risk of seizures, strokes and heart attacks, especially in patients with high-blood pressure. Due to the risks involved, you should not take ephedra for weight loss without close supervision by a doctor and herbalist.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon bark is a gentle herb, a tasty option that is easy to include as a spice or dietary supplement to help you lose weight. Cinnamon acts as a diuretic to help you lose extra water that may cause you to retain weight. Cinnamon also causes your body to raise its temperature, which raises the body's metabolism and increases your ability to burn more fat. Cinnamon can also reduce your risk of insulin resistance, a condition that can indicate a high risk of diabetes. Cinnamon can easily be added to sauces, cakes and pies, but it is also available in weight-loss supplement teas and capsules if you aren't fond of the taste of cinnamon.